Description
This Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is a comforting, flavorful stew perfect for busy days. Featuring lean mince, beans, and a rich blend of spices, it simmers slowly to develop deep, hearty flavors. Ideal for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while enjoying a delicious, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 kg (about 2 lb) lean mince (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 celery stalks, diced (optional carrots or bell peppers)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato and Beans
- 1 tin (400 g / 14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tin (400 g / 14 oz) beans (kidney, black, or borlotti), rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Liquids and Spices
- 1 cup beef (or vegetable/chicken) stock
- 2 tbsp chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (or 1 square of 70% dark chocolate, or a pinch of cinnamon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 tbsp oil for browning
Instructions
- Browning the mince: Heat oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Brown the mince until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onions, celery (and any optional vegetables), and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant, developing a flavorful base.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Move the browned mince and sautéed vegetables mixture into the slow cooker bowl, distributing evenly.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, rinsed beans, tomato paste, stock, chilli powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa powder. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Slow cook: Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the chilli cook for 7–8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken to a hearty consistency.
- Season and adjust: Toward the end of cooking, season with salt and pepper according to taste. Adjust the spiciness or richness by adding extra chilli powder or dark chocolate if desired for a deeper flavor profile.
Notes
- For a spicier chilli, increase the amount of chilli powder gradually to suit your heat preference.
- Using lean mince reduces fat content but maintains flavor; turkey or chicken mince work well as alternatives to beef.
- Optional veggies like carrots or bell peppers add texture and sweetness—feel free to include them for extra nutrition.
- Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and starch for a cleaner flavor.
- Slow cooking on low heat helps develop deeper, richer tastes and tender textures.
- Serving suggestions: top with sour cream, grated cheese, or fresh cilantro; serve with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips.
